Impetigo is a common superficial bacterial skin infection, most commonly seen in children. It is easily spread in close quarters, so it can be passed in places such as schools and day cares.[1] Because it is spread by contact, impetigo is also commonly seen in people participating in contact sports, such as wrestling. This skin rash can become more serious, so you do want to get it treated as soon as possible.

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Steps

Part 1 of 3: Understanding the Condition

1

Know the types of impetigo. Impetigo falls into two categories: non-bullous and bullous. The non-bullous impetigo begins as tiny blisters and usually ends up with red sores, which eventually turn into brownish crusted areas.[2] Several types of bacteria can cause non-bullous impetigo. Bullous impetigo creates larger blisters that are less likely to burst and is usually caused by the bacteria S. aureus.[3]

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2

Know where to look for impetigo. Impetigo usually produces a rash around the mouth, though it can also show up on hands and arms. In kids, it may show up in the diaper area. [4]

3

Visit the doctor. If you think you or your child has impetigo, the best course of action is to visit the doctor. The doctor can help ascertain that the rash on you or your child is, in fact, impetigo, as well as prescribe you the best medication.[5]

4

Avoid touching it. The rash is extremely contagious, so try to avoid touching the rash if possible. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap if you do touch the rash.[6]

This rash is often caused by variations of the staphylococcus bacteria (staph), which is why it is so contagious.[7] However, it can also develop from the streptococcal (strep) bacteria, as well, which is also contagious.[8]

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Part 2 of 3: Treating Impetigo

1

Soak the area to remove scabs. To help apply treatments, you may need to remove the top brown scabs first. Press a warm, wet cloth to the area for a few minutes, or soak the area in warm water to soften them.[9] Gently scrub the area with a wet, soapy washcloth when done, and rinse with water.[10]

Be sure to keep the washcloth separate from other people, as it can pass the rash.

2

Apply antibiotic ointment. Antibiotic ointment is one of the treatments to use for impetigo, and your doctor will prescribe the best one for your rash. Put on gloves or a finger cot. Rub the cream on the affected area.[11]

If you do not have gloves, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands when done applying the cream.[12]

3

Take antibiotic pills. The other option for impetigo is antibiotic pills. Usually, you take an antibiotic pill once or twice a day with food, for up to 10 days.[13]

4

Always take the medication for the allotted time. Whether you are on pills or cream, follow your doctor's instructions for how long you should take it. Even if you seem to be better, the bacteria may not be completely gone, and it can come back worse if you don't finish out your medication.[14]

5

Don't scratch sores. While it can be tempting to scratch the sores, it can also make the rash worse. It can spread the rash across your body or to another person.[15]

6

Know when to see a doctor again. If you still have the rash after 7 days and it isn't showing signs of healing, you should return to your doctor, as he or she may need to give you a different antibiotic.[16]

While this rash is usually not serious, it can cause rare complications. For instance, the strep version can lead to a rare disease, glomerulonephritis, which can harm the kidneys. If anyone with impetigo has dark urine, you should go back to the doctor to discuss the problem.[17]

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Part 3 of 3: Limiting Risk Factors

1

Avoid other people. In the first couple of days of infection, especially, it's a good idea to stay home from work or to keep your child home from school or daycare. You remain contagious for up to 2 days after starting treatment.[18]

2

Dry out your home. Impetigo is easier to spread when it is wet and humid. Air conditioners already take some of the humidity out of the air of your home, but if you live in an especially humid climate, you might want to invest in a dehumidifier for your home.[19]

3

Know what is contagious. Any contact with the discharge from the sores can pass the rash. However, nasal discharge can also pass the rash.[20]

4

Cover cuts and scrapes. The easiest way for impetigo to enter your body is through a cut or scrape. If you or your loved one has cuts, be sure to cover them up with band-aids or with a liquid bandage to provide protection.[21]

5

Don't share with a person who has impetigo. Whether you have impetigo or someone you know does, make sure that person keeps her towels and clothes to herself and doesn't share with other people in the family. It's easy to pass the rash if cloth has been rubbed on the infected area.[22]

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